BTS’s Kim Seokjin, also known as Jin, released his debut solo album, Happy, today, November 15. The album is also accompanied by a heartfelt music video for the title track, Running Wild, which also serves as the EP’s opening song. Jin’s solo project consists of six songs with broad themes of happiness, gratitude, personal growth, and love following the completion of his military service.

Notably, with the exception of Running Wild, an entirely English track, and Heart on the Window featuring Red Velvet’s Wendy, Jin contributed to the songwriting of the other songs on the EP. Through this album, Jin highlights various aspects of happiness and vulnerability while expressing his deep gratitude to the ARMY (fans) for their unwavering support during the past two years.

The opening track, Running Wild, is an ode to living life to the fullest, even if the world ends the next day. The music video echoes the song’s adventurous theme, celebrating living in the moment. “We’ll keep running wild, making love, until the sun comes up! We’ll keep running until there’s nothing left, until our last breath,” instilling in Jin a sense of passion and appreciation for life and love. The song has a vibrant Britpop-inspired sound.

Running Wild is followed by the pre-release single, I’ll Be There, which features a rock-and-roll-inspired sound. Its fast pace and upbeat rhythm perfectly complement its uplifting message, which is designed to encourage and comfort listeners during difficult times.

The third track, Another Level, slows things down with an expressive modern pop-rock arrangement. Jin’s heartfelt vocals shine as he sings about resilience and self-improvement, both professionally and personally. The electric guitar and bass arrangement makes it one of the best produced songs on the album.

Next is Falling, a poignant song that creates a contemplative atmosphere. The soft piano and subtle string instruments allow Jin to convey vulnerability and emotion with deep impact.

Heart on the Window, featuring Red Velvet’s Wendy, focuses on emotional intimacy and connection. This gentle ballad showcases the vocal harmonies between Wendy and Jin, hitting all the right notes. Combining classical instruments like piano and strings with a soft beat, this arrangement beautifully enhances both Jin and Wendy’s vocal powers.

The album concludes with I’ll Come to You, a heartfelt thank you note from Jin to his fans. This minimalist track features the piano as its primary instrument, keeping the focus on its introspective lyrics. The song reflects Jin’s love for his fans and his journey of self-reflection.

With Happy, Jin delivers an emotionally resonant and musically diverse album. Her vulnerability and honest connection with her audience makes this project a heartfelt celebration of personal growth, gratitude, and love.